Leonard Cohen – “It’s Torn” Lyrics Meaning

“It’s Torn” is a quest of the contrasts and contradictions that define human existence. The song delves into the themes of loss, beauty, and the inherent flaws in everything we hold dear. Cohen crafts a narrative that speaks to the heart of the human condition, suggesting that the world and everything in it—including relationships, beliefs, and the self—are fundamentally torn. Through vivid imagery and poignant questions, he reflects on the imperfections that make life both tragic and beautiful. Cohen wrote this song as a meditation on bearing life’s inherent flaws and the beauty that can be found within them, encouraging listeners to find peace amid brokenness.

Let’s uncover the intricate tapestry of imagery and emotion that Cohen weaves, revealing the beauty in life’s imperfections.


“It’s Torn” Lyrics Meaning

Cohen begins with an evocative image of someone standing before open windows, a metaphor for the openness and vulnerability of the human soul. This scene sets the stage for digging into the dichotomies that define our existence: the tangible and the ethereal, the mundane and the divine, and the temporal and the eternal.

The lyrics “The river too shallow, the ocean too deep” speak to the extremes of human emotion and experience, suggesting that we often find ourselves caught between insufficient fulfillment and overwhelming challenges. Cohen’s use of natural imagery—sand, silt, the sea—mirrors life’s tumultuous and ever-changing nature.

The repetition of “It’s torn” becomes a powerful refrain, highlighting the universal truth that everything is marked by imperfection and fragmentation. Whether it’s “torn in the center, which few can accept” or “torn where there’s beauty, it’s torn where there’s death,” Cohen underscores the idea that accepting this torn nature is crucial for understanding the complexity of life.

The line “The messages fly, but the network is down” could symbolize the breakdown in communication and connection in the modern world, further emphasizing the isolation and fragmentation we often feel. Cohen’s invocation of biblical imagery, particularly with references to Eve and the notion of returning to a state of innocence or beginning, suggests a longing for redemption and a return to wholeness amidst our broken landscapes.

Through “It’s Torn,” Cohen invites listeners to reflect on the beauty that can be found in acknowledging and embracing the imperfections and contradictions of life. He suggests that we may find a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us in accepting what is torn.

The Story Behind “It’s Torn”

Written in the later years of Cohen’s life, the song emanates a sense of introspection and wisdom gained through experience. At this point in his career, Cohen was no stranger to exploring the depths of the human heart and the complexities of existence. “It’s Torn” can be seen as a culmination of his lifelong meditation on the imperfections that define our lives.

Cohen’s state of mind when he wrote this song likely reflected his contemplation on mortality, legacy, and the acceptance of life’s inherent imperfections. The imagery of tornness throughout the song serves as a metaphor for the inevitable flaws and breaks in every aspect of existence—from personal relationships to the broader fabric of society.

In creating “It’s Torn,” Cohen sought to articulate the sense of fragmentation that characterizes human life and offer solace in the recognition that there is beauty and truth to be found in embracing our brokenness. This song, like much of his work, invites listeners to ponder the deeper meanings beneath the surface of our experiences, encouraging a sense of peace and acceptance amidst the chaos of the world.